Palumbo Shipyards’ Open Day on Sunday, November 26, attracted 5,000 participants. The event provided a unique opportunity for visitors to witness firsthand shipyard operations in a safe and family-friendly environment while experiencing various forms of entertainment throughout the day.
All guests who attended Sunday’s event had the opportunity to have a much closer look at the ongoing operations at Palumbo Malta Shipyards. At the shipyard’s commercial side, there were seven vessels; four in dry docks and three at berth, all of them engaged in carrying out major maintenance works. At the Superyachts facility, two mega yachts were undergoing major refit works in the dock, and three other superyachts, one of which – a 100m – were being refitted at berth. An additional three superyachts were undergoing their maintenance period on the hard, which were lifted ashore with a 400-ton travel lift.
The open environment allowed families to explore shipyard operations, gaining insight into the processes involved and the safety measures taken on a daily basis.
Visitors were able to experience the yards’ commitment to sustainability and learn more about operational environmental practices. These included the installation of photovoltaic panels that allow the production of clean energy with which the shipyard powers its operations, to energy efficiency, and how the adoption of Hydrojetting, facilitated by acquiring 20 advanced Hammelmann machines, has revolutionized the boat surface treatment processes, as well as the pioneering use of AirLite paint.
Participants had also the chance to admire Palumbo Shipyard’s evolving urban forest in Malta—home to cypress, palm, and olive trees. This green haven is the shipyard’s commitment to sustainability, set to flourish and contribute to its goal of full sustainability by 2030.
Participants had the opportunity to explore workshops, docks, and other areas, which are usually reserved, during informative tours. These visits provided a deeper understanding of the daily operations of Palumbo Shipyards and the mechanisms involved in ship repair and maintenance.
The Palumbo Shipyards Open Day was not only an exploration of maritime excellence but also a celebration of Maltese talent. Renowned artists such as Ivan Grech, Kantera, Freddy Portelli, Joe Demicoli, Claudia and Fabrizio Faniello, Kevin Paul, Kurt Calleja, as well as id-Dulli and Veronica, performed on stage throughout the day.
The event featured an iconic Ferrari car as well as special models of supercars. Participants were able to admire the cars up close during the Open Day.
The little ones had their own dedicated space in the children’s play area, with train rides through the yard, Flyboard shows, a soccer field to practice with local teams, BMX exhibitions and other engaging activities. Families enjoyed a day of fun and excitement.
Antonio Palumbo, President of the Palumbo Group, expressed his satisfaction with the event, stating, “It was a great day out for all the family, where one could appreciate the good working practices and environmentally friendly procedures adapted on a day-to-day basis. The overwhelming turnout reflects the community’s interest in our operations and the maritime industry as a whole.”
Palumbo Shipyards extends its gratitude to the community for making the Open Day a resounding success and looks forward to future opportunities to connect with the public.
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